Snape and Lockhart appearing together shattered Harry and his friends' predictions of the worst possible outcome.
Yet even now, there were still people who clung to illusions about Lockhart.
"I bet Professor Lockhart will show his real abilities this time. Just you watch."
Hermione said this, clearly not having given up on Lockhart completely, though judging by her tone, even she sounded a tiny bit hesitant.
Whatever the young wizards below the platform felt or thought, Lockhart had already begun speaking onstage with his usual dazzling smile:
"Gather round, gather round, everyone gather round. Can everyone see me? Can you hear me?"
Clearly, Lockhart had lost quite a bit of popularity at school during this time. Only a scattering of voices answered him.
But Lockhart did not seem particularly bothered, and continued with a beaming smile:
"Excellent! Here's the situation. Professor Dumbledore has approved my application and allowed me to set up this little Duelling Club for you, to give you plenty of training so that you won't lack the means to defend yourselves should the need ever arise. As you all surely know, I have a wealth of experience in this area. For specifics, you can consult my published works. They contain very detailed accounts."
Harry, along with Ron and Neville beside him, could not suppress the urge to roll their eyes. What did surprise them a little, though, was that Lockhart had been the one to apply to reopen the Duelling Club.
Lockhart did not see their little gestures, so he continued just as jauntily:
"Let me introduce my assistant for today's activity. Come on, step over here. Don't be shy, Professor Snape."
Lockhart motioned for Snape beside him to step forward a little.
From Snape's murderous gaze, Harry was certain that shyness was definitely not the reason